Chapter 994
“The stadium?” Adrian finally reacted, his gaze shifting slightly as he stared into the distance.
“Yeah, I heard they’re hosting some sort of global elite college gauntlet there today. It’s supposed to be a massive deal, lasting for a couple of weeks p>
“That’s exactly why traffic is completely backed up p>
Darius patted the steering wheel confidently. “Since she’s headed that way, I’d bet money she’s going to the stadium p>
Hearing this, Adrian narrowed his eyes, a cold scoff escaping his lips.
“The global elite college gauntlet p>
“That’s a mecca for the academic world. It’s packed with geniuses and industry experts p>
“What business does she have there p>
He let out a harsh laugh, sheer contempt rolling in his eyes. “Don’t tell me a country bumpkin like her actually thinks she’s going to compete p>
“Country bumpkin p>
Darius scratched his head in confusion. “Wait, you actually know that chick?” Adrian didn’t answer, simply lowering his gaze as his eyes shadowed with malice. As a seasoned sidekick, Darius easily sensed the shift in the air.
Since he had only just joined Adrian’s entourage after returning to the country, he was completely oblivious to his boss’s past entanglements with any girl from the countryside.
Eager to please, he nodded quickly. “You got it. We’re heading to the stadium right now p>
Rewind to ten minutes before the match.
Inside the stadium.
The final roll call was underway.
The elite squads from every prestigious university had assembled in the vast arena.
The judges’ panel was filled with internationally renowned masterminds.
The air was thick with the scent of psychological warfare, the tension so heavy it was practically suffocating.
Over at Marington College’s designated zone, The Hope Initiative’s area looked noticeably desolate.
Out of the five ergonomic gaming chairs, only three were occupied.
Caleb sat in the center, flanked by Jasper on his left and Vanessa on his right.
All three of them looked slightly pale, their eyes continuously darting toward the venue’s entrance. A fine sheen of sweat coated their foreheads.
They were desperately praying that Lydia was safe.
And they prayed that Serena would make it back with her in time.
But the seconds ticked away ruthlessly.
The start time loomed closer.
There was still no sign of their captain or teammate.
“Why aren’t they here yet Vanessa twisted her fingers together anxiously her eyes brimming with” sheer worry “Do you think Lydia… Is she p>
“Lydia will be fine.” Caleb cut her off firmly. “We have to trust the captain.
She said she’d bring Lydia back safely, and she always keeps her word p>
Vanessa and Jasper clenched their fists, nodding resolutely. “Right. She’ll bring her back. She definitely will p>
“Well, well, if it isn’t The Hope Initiative,” a shrill voice sneered from behind.
Bianca Doyle strutted over, dressed impeccably in her team’s custom uniform,
flanked by an entourage that treated her like royalty.
Isabella trailed close behind her, wearing the exact same gear, followed by a handful of other obsequious teammates.
They stopped directly in front of Caleb’s trio.
Though Caleb, Vanessa, and Jasper
were wearing the sleek uniforms
Serena had provided-which made
them look infinitely sharper than
their usual campus attire the
absence of two crucial members left them visibly rattled.
Between their anxiety and years of ingrained fear toward someone like Bianca.
Their presence seemed to shrink under the onslaught.
Bianca crossed her arms over her chest, her gaze drifting dismissively over the two empty chairs.
“Oh my. Why are there only three of you p>
“Where’s your little country bumpkin of a captain? And what about that pathetic charity case, Lydia p>
“Don’t tell me they got cold feet and ran away p>